Brand leaving

After eight years as IU president, Myles Brand is leaving to become president of the NCAA.\nAccording to an NCAA news release, Brand has become the new president-elect of the NCAA.\nIU Trustee Stephen Backer says Brand's position means he will be leaving IU.\nBrand's position with the NCAA was announced today, and his contract with the organization begins January 1, 2003.\nBrand, one of three finalists for the position, was elected unanimously by an Executive Commitee earlier today. The search for a new president began seven months ago after eight-year NCAA president Cedric W. Dempsey announced his retirement. Brand's new contract runs through December 31, 2003.\n"The committee has made an excellent choice," said Robert Lawless, Executive Committee chair and president of the University of Tulsa in a press release. "President-elect Brand in every way continues the high standards of leadership and integrity that have characterized the first three executive directors or presidents of the NCAA."\nBrand was among the 11 finalists that were selected following interviews last September. The total number of candidates nominated for the positions was 118.\nCheck back tonight for updates and find full coverage in Friday's Indiana Daily Student.